NAIROBI, Kenya — The government has urged parents, guardians, and school authorities to strengthen vigilance and protective measures to safeguard children as heavy rains and flooding continue to affect parts of the country.
In a statement released Saturday, the State Department for Children Services (Kenya) warned that children remain particularly vulnerable during emergencies and called on communities to prioritise their safety and well-being.
Principal Secretary Carren Ageng’o said the government was concerned about the safety, health, and dignity of children, especially those under the age of five.
“On behalf of the Government, I extend heartfelt sympathy to all families and communities impacted by these adverse weather conditions. Our particular concern is for the safety and well-being of children, who are often the most vulnerable during emergencies,” Ageng’o said.
The official said the department is working with national and county authorities, humanitarian organisations, and community partners to coordinate emergency response efforts in areas affected by flooding.
“We are collaborating closely with other government agencies, county governments, and humanitarian organisations to ensure children remain safe and protected,” she said.
According to the department, the coordinated response includes the distribution of food and essential relief supplies, as well as the provision of specialised child protection services to affected communities.
Officials emphasised that young children face heightened risks during disasters, including exposure to cold weather, disease outbreaks, and accidental injuries linked to flooded environments.
To address these risks, the department said it is working closely with the Ministry of Health (Kenya) and other partners to ensure targeted interventions for children under five.
“We will continue to safeguard their health, safety, and dignity during this challenging period,” Ageng’o said.
The department also urged parents and caregivers to keep children away from flooded areas, ensure they have warm clothing, and maintain safe living environments as the rains persist.
Authorities further appealed to members of the public to report any child in distress or in need of assistance through the National Child Helpline 116, a toll-free service available around the clock.
“We call upon our partners and well-wishers to continue supporting communities and to strengthen collaboration with government efforts so that together we can reach every child and family in need,” the department said.
The statement comes amid wider national efforts to respond to the ongoing floods, which have affected several counties and displaced thousands of households in recent days.
Government agencies have intensified coordination of rescue, relief, and recovery operations as heavy rains continue to fall across parts of the country.
Ageng’o urged communities to work together in protecting vulnerable populations during the crisis.
“Let us stand together as a nation to protect our children and support families during this difficult time,” she said.
